As a private taxi company in San Diego, we’re always interested in the new (and few) changes in our industry and wanted to take the time to introduce the idea of driverless cars to our clients! A driverless car is exactly what it sounds like: a car that can operate by itself, without a driver. These cars are starting to gain popularity in the technology world, with the most popular being Google’s driverless car. So how do driverless cars work? Simply stated, a driverless car uses light detection to operate. Based on numerous rotating laser beams, the car is able to map out a 3D model of its surroundings, helping to detect stationary objects and travel safely.

Pros and Cons of Driverless Cars

Driverless cars, for as much as they have been tested, seem to be extremely safe. The Google driverless car, which has driven thousands of miles, only ever experienced one accident. Even so, this accident was caused by another, human driver, who rear-ended the driverless car. If the idea of driverless cars catches on, the number of accidents is projected to drop significantly. Designers are also hoping that because the driverless car is operated by a computer, it’s not going to be effected by factors such as weather, sleep-deprivation, stress, etc.

With all the excitement surrounding the driverless car, it seems like there aren’t any downsides. However, there are a few concerns in regards to safety. For example, the driverless cars are essentially computers, and computers, as many people know can be hacked. If these cars are hacked, it has the potential to create major chaos and put the lives of others on the road at risk. Additionally, people are a bit weary of the car itself since the person acting as a passenger in the car will have little to no control. What happens if the passenger must get out of the car for some reason? Is there an override command?

Transportation Market

So what could this mean for the local transportation market here in San Diego? If the fad of driverless cars catches on, it could completely transform the transportation market, providing another viable transportation option for residents and visitors. Just like in other areas of business, technology is starting to take over. Will transportation be safer or more efficient? Maybe. But will it still be trustworthy and reliable? We just don’t know yet.

Until driverless cars become more relevant in the city of San Diego, you can count on Citi Airport Transportation for reliable and on time drivers. While our luxury vehicles don’t drive themselves, we can assure you that we will get to you safely to your desired destination as quick as possible. For more information or to reserve transportation to the airport or for an upcoming event, contact us at 858-205-7430.